Saucedo thrilled the 4,102 local fans in attendance when he floored Hooker with a big right hand in round two. Hooker, however, regained his rhythm and the fight entered a familiar pattern. Saucedo marched forward and Hooker landed flush counter punches.

Eventually, Hooker took over, as cuts over Saucedo’s left eye opened up. Hooker was credited with a knockdown in the seventh when the ropes held up a reeling Saucedo. Hooker then pummeled Saucedo at will until the bout was stopped. Time was 1:36.

“Alex is a great fighter. He came to fight, and I came to fight, and I went right at him,” Hooker said. “I knew the first couple of rounds would be tough, but eventually it would be my time to take over.”

Said Saucedo: “He’s a champion for a reason. Now, I am going to rest, enjoy my family, and come back stronger. I gave it my very best in the ring.”